EON aims to boost global data speeds with space lasers

Today, as large data centers are being built rapidly around the world, transmitting digital data across oceans still relies largely on fiber-optic cables laid on the seabed. However, according to ixbt.com, installing, maintaining and repairing these cables is highly complex, while the network itself is also quite vulnerable. Conventional terrestrial radio waves do not offer sufficient bandwidth. According to Techcrunch.com this is reported.

Space-based laser technologies are being proposed as a solution to this problem. The startup Endeavor Optical Networks (EON), founded in May this year and having secured initial funding totaling $10.75 million, plans to create a network of laser-equipped satellites that will connect data centers from orbit. The company’s founders, Charlie Horowitz and Tyler Presser, have set ambitious goals.

A new stage in space communications

Most satellite communication systems cannot provide speeds of 200 terabits per second or more, as seabed cables can. However, the development of more powerful satellites and optical technologies in recent years is expanding the possibilities for transmitting data from space to Earth using lasers. In particular, NASA successfully used laser communications during its latest lunar mission.

Nevertheless, communication links previously tested by private space companies achieved speeds of only 2.5 gigabits per second, while EON is targeting an entirely different level. According to the company’s CEO, its initial goal is to achieve a bandwidth of 2.4 terabits per second. Doing so will require overcoming atmospheric interference and signal distortions caused by clouds.

The project’s current plans

EON intends to establish a network of approximately 20 satellites in space. Each spacecraft will provide a dedicated connection between two continents. The company will focus particularly on routes where data transmission is difficult or infrastructure is insufficient, including connections between France and Australia and between Africa and South America.

At this stage, the startup will use the funds it has raised to build an optical laboratory, hire engineers and prepare to launch a test satellite planned for the end of 2027. EON is focusing on developing specialized optical communication terminals and plans to purchase ready-made satellite buses.